Finance Minister Adrien Sala defended the campaign, stating that it was essential to inform Manitobans about the government’s efforts and commitment to delivering on promises. Sala mentioned that the NDP had the option to halt one of the tax cuts after the election but chose to follow through, even after discovering a higher deficit than initially stated by the Tories.

The Progressive Conservatives, now in Opposition, argue that the NDP’s advertisements fail to acknowledge the previous government’s role in implementing the tax cuts. Tory finance critic Obby Khan emphasized that the NDP should recognize and thank the prior administration for these savings.

The tax cuts comprise two elements: an increase in the basic personal amount, which came into effect last year, and adjustments to tax rate thresholds, which became effective on January 1 of the current year. The NDP’s advertising campaign follows an earlier initiative promoting the temporary suspension of the provincial fuel tax, set to last until June 30.

Some critics argue that the Progressive Conservative income tax cuts are superior because they are permanent, unlike the NDP’s temporary fuel tax holiday, which offers consumers a temporary 14 cents per litre savings at the pump. The NDP government has allocated approximately $200,000 for the fuel tax suspension campaign.

Since the onset of the job action, tenants have reported a lack of essential support services, causing heightened anxiety as they grapple with tasks like getting out of bed and managing personal care needs. Despite the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority’s efforts to temporarily address the staffing gaps, tenants argue that the assistance provided is insufficient, leading them to assist the replacement workers themselves.

The tenants express concerns about the limited communication and awareness among the temporary staff regarding their specific needs. Some residents feel that crucial aspects should have been better handled, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in such situations.

Lori Ross, a resident, highlights the lack of information provided to many individuals in the building about the impending strike, underscoring the need for improved communication strategies. Nolan Smith, another resident, attributes the current issues to a broader problem of the company deviating from its initial philosophy of promoting independent living.

Despite attempts to contact the company for a statement, Global News has not received a response. The affected tenants hope for a swift resolution to the strike and express a desire for more involvement in decisions related to their living situations to prevent similar challenges in the future.

Insp. Joe Telus from Manitoba RCMP’s Federal Policing Unit commended the collaborative efforts, stating, “Without a doubt, their work has made an impact and will stem the availability of this incredibly dangerous drug, a drug that has already impacted so many lives.”

The operation unfolded on January 14 at the Boissevain port of entry, where officers conducted a search of a transport truck en route to Winnipeg from the United States. Ken MacGregor, CBSA chief of operations, revealed that the truck was selected for further examination, leading to the discovery of narcotics in several large suitcases.

The confiscated drugs have an estimated street value of approximately $50,780,000, according to CBSA reports. The driver of the truck has been charged with importing methamphetamine and possession for the purpose of trafficking. The individual is scheduled to appear in a Manitoba court in February.

Despite the arrest and the significant drug seizure, Insp. Telus emphasized that extensive investigative work remains. He stated, “Normally, this type of seizure is the result of an extensive, years-long investigation. In this instance, we have a massive quantity of drugs, and now need to work backward and look at every detail.”

Telus believes that due to the origin and size of the shipment, organized crime at local, national, and international levels is likely involved. The distribution of the seized drugs was anticipated in Winnipeg, Western Canada, and Ontario. Telus pointed out the link between large illicit drug shipments and increased violence in communities, as criminal networks vie for territory and control over drug sales.

“This seizure is crucial as it will make a significant difference to many lives and communities throughout our country,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of disrupting drug trafficking networks to enhance community safety.

The increasing demand for electricity prompts the exploration of additional power generation, influenced by factors such as the establishment of new large industrial customers and the pace of the shift to electric vehicles. Grewal emphasized the potential involvement of Manitoba-based entities in the bidding process.

Manitoba Hydro is still recovering from the financial repercussions of its previous major construction projects, including the Bipole III transmission line and the Keeyask generating station, which ran $3.7 billion over budget, leading to a tripling of the corporation’s debt in 15 years. Given the cost and time associated with building a new generating station, collaborating with independent energy producers is seen as a pragmatic approach.

Premier Wab Kinew affirmed the government’s commitment to support Manitoba Hydro’s efforts to expand capacity for job creation and economic development.

In addressing the growing demand, Manitoba Hydro is exploring time-of-use rates to incentivize energy consumption during non-peak hours. Despite initial reservations by the NDP government, Grewal indicated a more open stance towards the idea, emphasizing the need for flexible pricing strategies to manage peak demand effectively.

Regarding future electricity rates, Grewal acknowledged the potential for increases beyond the recently set one percent hikes by the provincial regulator. He cited the necessity of substantial capital investments in aging assets and supporting the energy transition as factors that could influence rate adjustments. The NDP government, which pledged to freeze rates for one year during the election campaign, may face challenges as rate adjustments become a crucial aspect of sustaining Manitoba’s energy infrastructure.

The unique circumstances surrounding McKay’s incredible win add an extra layer of charm to the story. Her winning ticket, a source of immense fortune, was a birthday gift from her partner, Lawrence Campbell. Reflecting on the unexpected stroke of luck, Campbell shared, “She had been asking me for three weeks to get a ticket, but I never went and got one. Then we drove by one, and I was like ‘OK, I might as well go get you one right now.’”

Campbell purchased a Quick Pick ticket for McKay for the January 20 draw, investing a mere $12. The stars aligned for them as the winning numbers – 1, 6, 12, 27, 45, and 49 – were drawn on the classic lottery draw. The fortunate ticket was bought at the Canco Gas Station located on Isabel Street, marking the beginning of a life-changing journey for McKay.

Speaking about her plans for the substantial windfall, McKay revealed her intention to invest in a new home and ensure the well-being of her family. The newfound financial freedom promises to bring positive transformations to her life, all stemming from a serendipitous birthday gift and the turn of the Lotto 6/49 draw in her favor.

The events leading to Opaso’s death began on December 31 around 2:20 p.m., when police were summoned to an apartment suite in the first 100 block of University Crescent following reports of a man displaying erratic behavior. The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) was informed of the shooting, which occurred during a confrontation between two officers and Opaso, who was reportedly armed with two knives.

Winnipeg Police Chief Danny Smyth disclosed on Monday that the encounter resulted in the use of force, culminating in one officer discharging their weapon, leaving Opaso critically injured. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Opaso succumbed to his injuries.

Kwilu shed light on the circumstances leading to the distressing incident, stating that Opaso was experiencing a mental health episode when a 911 call was made by someone in the suite. Witnesses recounted emphasizing the mental health nature of the situation to the emergency services, asserting that Opaso posed no threat to others and was in need of assistance.

According to Kwilu, there is no indication that Opaso initiated an attack on the police. Opaso’s family, who are not currently in Winnipeg, are grappling with shock and trauma, having sent their son abroad with hopes of education, only to receive news of his tragic demise.

Kwilu expressed the family’s concerns regarding the police handling of the situation, questioning why a call for mental health assistance resulted in Opaso’s death. He pointed out that the incident should have triggered the Alternative Response to Citizens in Crisis (ARCC) program, but Winnipeg police contend that the criteria were not met due to safety concerns.

As the IIU launches an investigation into the shooting, it urges anyone with information to come forward. The IIU also disclosed plans to request the Manitoba Police Commission to appoint a civilian monitor, given the gravity of the matter involving a fatality. At this time, no further details have been provided, leaving the community and Opaso’s grieving family in search of answers.

The incident unfolded on December 31 around 2:20 p.m. when officers responded to a call at an apartment suite in the first 100 block of University Crescent, reporting a man behaving erratically.

Winnipeg Police Chief Danny Smyth, in a New Year’s Day news conference, stated, “Two officers were dispatched to the apartment to assist, and upon arrival, they encountered multiple people inside the suite, including a man armed with two knives.”

“Officers, moments later, were involved in a use of force encounter that resulted in the male being shot by one of our officers,” Smyth added.

Immediate emergency medical care was provided to the 19-year-old victim. Despite being rushed to the hospital in critical condition, he succumbed to his injuries. Two other individuals in the suite, a 21-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman, were unharmed.

Smyth mentioned that the deceased had a prior encounter with the police in July, where assistance was provided by offering him a ride. However, he had no other record with the police and no criminal history.

The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU), responsible for overseeing officer-related incidents, has taken charge of the case. The IIU will inform next-of-kin and disclose its findings to the public upon completion of the investigation.

The Order of Canada, established in 1967, is one of the country’s highest honors, celebrating individuals whose sustained contributions have positively impacted Canada. Other notable appointees include broadcaster and producer George Stroumboulopoulos and Canada’s first Inuk opera singer, Deantha Rae Edmunds. Governor General Simon emphasized the importance of recognizing excellence and diversity in Canadian communities. A complete list of new appointments can be found online.

Due to elevated safety concerns for the hostage, the tactical team executed a rescue operation at approximately 5:10 p.m., resulting in the police shooting the hostage-taker, who died at the scene. The Independent Investigation Unit is now investigating the shooting. The hostage, identified as a 19-year-old woman, emerged unharmed.

The police revealed that the deceased suspect had an extensive criminal record for violence and weapons offenses and was a person of interest in a homicide investigation at the same address. The homicide victim, Farah Mohamud, 34, from Delta, B.C., was reported missing on Dec. 23 and found dead on Dec. 26 on the fifth floor of the apartment building.

While the building appears to be a common link, no arrests have been made in Mohamud’s death, and the investigation is ongoing. Winnipeg police encourage anyone with information on Mohamud’s death to come forward.

The one-night concert promises a journey through Ne-Yo’s impressive discography, featuring chart-topping hits from his early career to the latest anthems. Whether you’re a devoted fan or a newcomer to his music, the evening is set to be a celebration of Ne-Yo’s musical legacy, offering a diverse setlist that caters to all tastes.

Ticket Information for Ne-Yo Live in Winnipeg:

Secure your tickets now at https://www.eventbrite.ca

• General Admission: $102.87
• Regular: $171.49
• Deluxe B: $228.68
• Deluxe A: $285.87
• Premium B: $320.18
• Premium A: $343.05